FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Ford/Explorer/Sixth Generation (2020-present)/How can I fix the air conditioning issues in my 2021 Ford Explorer?

How can I fix the air conditioning issues in my 2021 Ford Explorer?

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium
4 min read
678 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix air conditioning issues in your 2021 Ford Explorer with step-by-step instructions and required tools.

Component
Air Conditioning System

Symptoms

  • •No Cold Air
  • •Weak Airflow
  • •Strange Noises
  • •Bad Odors
  • •AC Not Engaging

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Visual Inspection
  2. 2Check AC Controls
  3. 3Listen for Compressor Engagement
  4. 4Check Refrigerant Level
  5. 5Inspect Cabin Air Filter

Solution

Fixing Air Conditioning Issues in a 2021 Ford Explorer

Tools Required

  • Manifold gauge set
  • R134a refrigerant (if needed)
  • Vacuum pump (for refrigerant recovery)
  • Basic hand tools (screwdrivers, wrenches)
  • Multimeter (for electrical testing)
  • Torque wrench
  • Safety glasses and gloves

Repair Instructions

1. Recharging the AC System

If the refrigerant level is low:

  • Step 1: Recover the existing refrigerant using a vacuum pump.
  • Step 2: Connect the manifold gauge set to the AC service ports.
  • Step 3: With the engine running and AC on max, add refrigerant until the pressures are within specifications.
  • Step 4: Disconnect the gauges and check for leaks.

2. Replacing the Cabin Air Filter

If airflow is weak:

  • Step 1: Open the glove compartment and remove any contents.
  • Step 2: Locate the clips on the sides of the glove compartment and gently squeeze to remove.
  • Step 3: Find the cabin air filter housing; it usually has a cover that can be unclipped.
  • Step 4: Remove the old filter and replace it with a new one, ensuring the airflow direction matches.
  • Step 5: Reassemble the glove compartment.

3. Replacing the AC Compressor

If the compressor does not engage:

  • Step 1: Disconnect the battery.
  • Step 2: Locate the AC compressor (usually on the front of the engine).
  • Step 3: Remove the serpentine belt from the compressor by releasing tension from the tensioner.
  • Step 4: Disconnect any electrical connectors and refrigerant lines from the compressor.
  • Step 5: Unbolt the compressor from its mounting bracket and remove it.
  • Step 6: Install the new compressor, making sure to replace any O-rings with new ones.
  • Step 7: Reconnect the refrigerant lines and electrical connectors.
  • Step 8: Reinstall the serpentine belt.
  • Step 9: Recharge the AC system.

4. Electrical Issues

If there is no power to the compressor:

  • Step 1: Check the fuse for the AC system in the fuse box (refer to the owner’s manual for location).
  • Step 2: Use a multimeter to check for power at the compressor connector. If there is no power, check the AC control module.
  • Step 3: Repair or replace any faulty wiring or components as necessary.

Conclusion

After completing the repairs, always test the AC system to ensure that it operates correctly. Monitor for any unusual noises or smells, and check that the airflow is strong and cold. If the problem persists, consider consulting a professional technician for further diagnostics.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • Manifold gauge set
  • R134a refrigerant
  • Vacuum pump
  • Basic hand tools
  • Multimeter
  • Torque wrench
  • Safety glasses
  • Gloves

Additional Information

Component

Air Conditioning System

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

8 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. What are the common issues with the power liftgate on the 2021 Ford Explorer?

    Explore common issues with the power liftgate on the 2021 Ford Explorer, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

    Component:power liftgate
    Symptoms
    • •Liftgate Does Not Open/Close
    • •Liftgate Opens Partially
    • +{count} more
  2. What are the symptoms of a bad wheel bearing in the Ford Explorer Sixth Generation?

    Learn about the symptoms of a bad wheel bearing in the Ford Explorer Sixth Generation and how to diagnose and repair the issue.

    Component:wheel bearing
    Symptoms
    • •Unusual Noise
    • •Vibration
    • +{count} more
  3. Why is my Ford Explorer 2021 having trouble shifting gears?

    P0700, P0730

    Learn how to diagnose and resolve gear shifting issues in your 2021 Ford Explorer with our detailed guide, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and r...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Sluggish or delayed shifting between gears
    • •Unusual noises during shifting (grinding, clunking)
    • +{count} more
  4. What are the signs of a failing differential in the Ford Explorer Sixth Generation?

    Learn about the symptoms, diagnostic steps, and tools required to identify and address differential issues in the Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020...

    Component:differential
    Symptoms
    • •Grinding or whining sounds
    • •Clunking sounds
    • +{count} more
  5. What are the signs of a faulty fuel injector in the Ford Explorer Sixth Generation?

    Learn about the symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions for faulty fuel injectors in the Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present).

    Component:fuel injector
    Symptoms
    • •Engine Misfire
    • •Reduced Engine Performance
    • +{count} more
  6. What should I check if my 2021 Ford Explorer is making a popping noise?

    Learn how to diagnose and fix a popping noise in your 2021 Ford Explorer, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and required tools.

    Component:suspension, drivetrain, exhaust system
    Symptoms
    • •Popping noise when turning or going over bumps
    • •Noise during acceleration or deceleration
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation